Thrombolytic therapy and the nursing profession. Results of a statewide survey

A statewide survey of 624 nurses in 92 hospitals in Massachusetts indicates that recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator and streptokinase are the most widely available thrombolytic agents. Nurses play an active role in drug reconstitution and administration, but only 20% of the total respondents participate consistently in screening procedures. The majority of patients were informed about the risks and benefits of treatment before initiation of therapy. Nurses reported their major management concern was internal bleeding, with cost of treatment being a minor concern.